Ready to get started?
Ready to practice with Seacoast DockDogs? Here's what you need to know:
At all DockDogs events there is a 40 foot dock with a 40 foot pool with a dock that is 24 inches above the water.
The dock and pool at The Berwick Bark Park are regulation sized.
Your dog will be jumping off the dock chasing after a floatable toy.
The best toy to use is one your dog is wild for, that way when you throw it in the pool he actually wants to jump in to get it! Making sure your dog has some "toy drive" and enjoys the water are two key components with DockDogs put those two together and you've got a great dock diving combinations.
We will do out best to get your dog to jump! However, we do not allow, pushing, pulling or throwing of the dogs into the pool.
You can lie down on the dock, splash the water and make as many encouraging sounds/motions as you like!
You may use any throwing technique as well.
Some people prefer the chase method and have their dogs sit at the end of the dock and dive into the pool while the toy is in mid air. Other people prefer a the place and send technique.
The trick is to try out various methods and see which works best for you and your dog.
Once your dog has figured out the name of the game you can take the time to perfect your own skills such as throwing....any handler will tell you "it's all in the throw"!
There are only a few simple rules you need to remember:
There will always be experienced Seacoast DockDogs members at all practices to help you.
Don't be shy- ask questions!
At all DockDogs events there is a 40 foot dock with a 40 foot pool with a dock that is 24 inches above the water.
The dock and pool at The Berwick Bark Park are regulation sized.
Your dog will be jumping off the dock chasing after a floatable toy.
The best toy to use is one your dog is wild for, that way when you throw it in the pool he actually wants to jump in to get it! Making sure your dog has some "toy drive" and enjoys the water are two key components with DockDogs put those two together and you've got a great dock diving combinations.
We will do out best to get your dog to jump! However, we do not allow, pushing, pulling or throwing of the dogs into the pool.
You can lie down on the dock, splash the water and make as many encouraging sounds/motions as you like!
You may use any throwing technique as well.
Some people prefer the chase method and have their dogs sit at the end of the dock and dive into the pool while the toy is in mid air. Other people prefer a the place and send technique.
The trick is to try out various methods and see which works best for you and your dog.
Once your dog has figured out the name of the game you can take the time to perfect your own skills such as throwing....any handler will tell you "it's all in the throw"!
There are only a few simple rules you need to remember:
- When not on the dock, keep your dog on a leash (no longer than 4 ft.) or in a crate. No retractable (flexi) leashes.
- Your throw object must float and not be edible or anything that is live or has been live.
- Only one handler on the dock at a time. During practice we will probably be up there to help you.
- No training collars allowed on the dock, only flat buckle and material only martingale collars are allowed
- No pushing your dog off the dock
- No abusive behavior toward dogs, other competitors, or workers
- No dogs in heat
- Keep your dogs at least 8’ from other dogs
- Only the dog on the dock may be off leash
- You must clean up after your dog.
- Most of all, Have Fun
There will always be experienced Seacoast DockDogs members at all practices to help you.
Don't be shy- ask questions!
